According to the Australian Dental Association, dental fillings restore the tooth structure damaged due to decay or fracture. Fillings are also used to strengthen teeth that have been weakened by wear or to restore broken or chipped teeth. The most common types of fillings are amalgam, composite and ceramic.
This article will explore the benefits and types of dental fillings and the preparation and recovery involved.
It is written for those interested in serving others and promoting oral health.
What are Dental Fillings?
Dental fillings are a common restorative procedure for repairing decayed or damaged teeth. The filling material used can vary depending on the individual’s needs and preferences and the dentist’s recommendation. Types of fillings include amalgam fillings, gold fillings, composite fillings, porcelain fillings, and other filling materials.
Amalgam fillings are made up of metals, including silver, copper, and tin, which are melted and combined to create a strong filling. Gold fillings are made of pure gold and are a great option for those who are looking for a more expensive, long-lasting filling material.
Composite fillings are made up of a combination of glass and plastic particles and are popular due to their ability to blend in with the colour of natural teeth. Porcelain fillings are also an option, and they are similar to composite fillings in that they can blend in with the colour of natural teeth.
No matter the type of dental filling, the purpose is to restore the tooth to its natural look and function. Dental fillings are an important part of dental treatment and can help prevent further tooth decay and protect the remaining natural teeth.
Benefits of Dental Fillings
The installation of restorative material can provide numerous benefits. Dental fillings are one of the most common and cost-effective methods of restoring teeth affected by decay. The filling chosen depends on the extent of the damage, and the available options include silver amalgam, composite resin, and glass ionomer.
The dental filling procedure begins with removing the decayed tooth structure and cleaning the affected area. After the area is prepared, the chosen filling material is placed into the cavity, which is shaped and hardened to restore the tooth’s structure and function.
Benefits of dental fillings include:
- Strengthening tooth structure weakened by decay
- Providing a barrier to decay-causing bacteria
- Enhancing the appearance of teeth with tooth-coloured fillings
The filling chosen depends on the extent of the damage and the desired outcome. Silver amalgam and composite resin fillings are the most commonly used fillings, although glass ionomer and other fillings may also be available. Each type of filling has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it is important to discuss the options with your dentist.
Types of Dental Fillings
Restorative materials used to fill cavities may vary depending on the extent of the damage and the desired outcome. Depending on the location and severity of the decay, a dentist may recommend a temporary filling, multiple dental visits, or a permanent dental filling. Common dental filling materials include composite, composite resin, and tooth-coloured fillings.
A dental crown, gold crown, or partial crown may be necessary for more severe cases. Amalgam restorations and composite restorations are also popular options for dental fillings.
Temporary fillings are the most commonly used and are typically made of acrylic or glass ionomer. Although they are only intended for short-term use, they can provide an effective solution for mild to moderate cases of decay.
Composite materials and resins are the most aesthetically pleasing option and are often used for visible areas of the mouth. Tooth-coloured fillings are also popular and often used to replace silver amalgam fillings.
Gold and partial crowns are often used for more severe cases. Gold crowns are the most durable option, while partial crowns are used when only a portion of the tooth is affected.
Amalgam and composite restorations are also used for larger cavities and provide a durable, long-term solution.
Preparing for a Dental Filling
Before receiving a dental filling, patients should consult with their dentist to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and any questions they may have. Depending on the severity of the cavity, the dentist may need to carry out an emergency dental procedure or recommend a replacement filling.
To prepare for the filling, the patient should avoid eating cold food, as it may cause tooth pain signals to be sent to the area of the cavity. Food particles should also be avoided, as they could lead to additional decay.
The dentist will clean the area around the cavity and remove any natural tooth structure damaged by decay. Additional visits may be necessary if the dentist determines that a root canal procedure or root canal therapy is required.
The Procedure for Filling a Cavity
Once the area has been properly prepared, the dentist will proceed with the cavity-filling procedure. This procedure typically involves the removal of any decayed material in the tooth cavity, as well as the placement of a dental filling option to fill the cavity.
The following are a few steps involved in the tooth-filling procedure:
- The dentist will apply a dark colour material to help identify any cavities and ensure that all decayed material has been removed.
- The dentist will use a drill or laser to remove excess material from the tooth cavity.
- The dentist may then offer a tooth-coloured material for a long-lasting filling option, or they may recommend the placement of gold fillings depending on the patient’s comfort level.
- Finally, the dentist will use a special tool to place the filling material in the tooth cavity.
The cavity-filling procedure is an important part of maintaining proper oral health. It is important to discuss all available dental filling options with your dentist to choose the best option for your comfort level and long-term oral health.
Recovery and Aftercare for Dental Fillings
Following the placement of a dental filling, adhering to certain recovery and aftercare protocols is important to ensure the successful restoration of the affected tooth. Depending on the type of filling, such as a gold inlay, porcelain inlay, glass particle composite, indirect filling, or traditional filling, the recovery period and aftercare oral health routine may differ. For example, a cavity filling typically requires little to no recovery period, while a more complex filling, such as a gold inlay, may require a longer recovery period.
Regardless of the type of filling, the patient needs to follow a healthy diet low in sugars and carbohydrates, as these can cause additional damage to the tooth. Additionally, the patient should avoid tooth grinding and contact sports to protect the tooth from further injury. If possible, the patient should also consider investing in a mouthguard to protect the tooth from additional damage.
Finally, the patient should check with their insurance provider to ensure their policy covers their filing. Sometimes, a patient may be required to pay for their filling out of pocket, so it is important to know the details of their insurance policy before undergoing the procedure.
Key Takeaways
Dental fillings can provide a variety of benefits, from preventing further recurrent decay to restoring the natural function and appearance of a tooth. They can be made from a variety of materials, and the procedure for inserting them is relatively straightforward.
A dental filling can last for many years with proper dental care and maintenance. As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Regular cleaning and check-ups can help to prevent the need for dental fillings and, in turn, save time and money in the long run.
Thus, caring for our teeth is key to maintaining long-term oral health.
At SmileWorks Dental Doreen, we understand how important it is to care for your teeth. From regular cleaning and check-ups to the placement of dental fillings, we are here to help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. Our experienced dentists in Doreen are committed to providing the highest quality of care and ensuring each patient receives the best possible treatment. So if you’re looking for a dental practice committed to helping its patients achieve and maintain long-term oral health, contact SmileWorks Dental Doreen, VIC, today!